Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs:

Who can use Culture Pass?

Cardholding patrons 13 and older of Queens Library, Brooklyn Public Library and The New York Public Library are eligible to reserve passes for free admission to participating cultural institutions. To qualify for a free public library card in New York City, you must be a resident of New York State or work for a company or go to school in New York City. If you are eligible and would like to apply for a NYC library card, visit your library’s website below to get started.

Which libraries are participating in Culture Pass?

Culture Pass is a collaborative program coordinated by Brooklyn Public Library, Queens Library and The New York Public Library.

How do I make a reservation using Culture Pass?

Go to the Culture Pass website and click on your library system.

Log in to the Culture Pass reservations system using your library card credentials.

Browse for passes by date or venue.

Make a reservation.

Retrieve your pass shortly before your visit. Remember that once you retrieve your pass you cannot cancel your reservation. Passes are only redeemable during hours that each venue is open to the public—be sure to check the venue’s hours before you reserve! You will be required to present valid ID in person that matches the name on your pass. The cardholder who reserved the pass must be present to redeem free entry.

Which cultural institutions are available for reservation through Culture Pass?

You can see which museums, venues, botanic gardens and other attractions are available on the Culture Pass website by clicking on Participating Organizations. Don't see your organization listed? Contact us to learn how you can participate!

When are passes for a new month available?

Passes will be released three months in advance on the first of every month. For example, on August 1, November passes will be made available and Culture Pass patrons will be able to reserve any available passes for dates between August 1st and November 30th.

Is there an age limit to participate in Culture Pass?

You must be at least 13 years old to reserve a pass.

How many passes can I reserve?

You can reserve one pass per cultural institution per year and you can have two active reservations per library card. Having two active reservations will block you from making additional bookings for future dates. If you reserve a pass but do not use it you will not be able to book for that institution until the next calendar year.

How many people can use one pass?

This will vary depending on the venue. Cultural institutions may choose to offer passes for two adults or families of four. Be sure to carefully read the details when reserving your pass. Passes are not transferable. Remember, you will be required to present valid ID in person that matches the name on your pass. The cardholder who reserved the pass must be present to redeem free entry.

Is there a mobile version of Culture Pass?

Yes, you can access the Culture Pass website on your mobile device. Currently, there is no Culture Pass app.

Can I print a pass at a library branch?

Yes. Printing at all Queens Library branches is free—so print your pass when you are ready and enjoy! To avoid a minimal fee when printing at a New York Public Library or Brooklyn Public Library branch, please ask a library staff member to release the print job for you. Be sure to tell them you are printing a Culture Pass.

Why can’t I make a reservation?

There are a few reasons why you may not be able to make a reservation:

No passes are currently available. Check back on the first of the month!

You have two active reservations—the maximum you can have at any given time.

You’ve already used up your passes for the year.

How do I cancel an active Culture Pass reservation?

You can only cancel a pass if you have not clicked on the "Retrieve Pass" button and agreed to the warning that passes cannot be cancelled after viewing or printing. For this reason, we recommend printing your pass one day prior to your reservation. Library staff cannot cancel passes for you. If you need to cancel, please do so with three days notice (when possible) to allow someone else to use the pass.

How is this different from other programs like IDNYC or Cool Culture?

The Culture Pass program allows cardholders the ability to reserve one free day pass per participating institution per year. In contrast, IDNYC allows for free year long memberships to participating institutions. Cool Culture is targeted to low-income families with young children, also providing year long access. Culture Pass is available to any NYC library card holder age of 13 and older.

How can I reset my PIN?

You can reset your PIN by visiting the website of your home library system. Please follow the links below...